Depot: Rangers-Dodgers Live Game Blog, News And Notes

Posted on June 13th, 2009 4:58pm by Evan Grant
Filed under AL West race, Baseball, Live blogs, Talkin' baseball, Texas Rangers
Final 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Total
Dodgers 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 3
Rangers 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1

4:42: You are cordially invited to a pool party.

4:48: Locally, it’s been reported that Andruw Jones has no animosity towards the Dodgers. Maybe not, but in L.A, the reports are he has plenty of the stuff for Dodgers owner Frank McCourt.

4:57: Angels manager Mike Scioscia hinted at some changes earlier this week when his team was routed in Tampa Bay. Well, they made a big one after Friday night’s win over San Diego, sending 2B Howie Kendrick to Triple-A. Question: Will sending out a veteran jolt the Angels awake or is Los Angeles simply grasping at straws?

5:04: And now to our little game here. The Rangers are sending out a lineup with two lefties – LF David Murphy and 1B Chris Davis _ against Dodgers’ LHP Randy Wolf. Wolf has allowed lefties five hits in 56 at-bats this season for a .089 opponents batting average. The Rangers are leaving switch-hitting OF Brandon Boggs on the bench. Murphy had a pair of hits against Toronto LHP Ricky Romero on Thursday to double his season total against lefties this season. Davis, who is 3-for-7 with three walks in his last three games, is showing signs again of emerging from his season-long troubles. Davis is hitting .167 against lefties this season. Not sure facing Wolf is going to help him keep making progress, but the Rangers value his defensive abilities so much, they aren’t going to give him the night off.

5:08: Speaking of facing lefties, C Jarrod Saltalamacchia is back in the lineup tonight after giving way for a day to Taylor Teagarden and is trying to recover the early-season swing he had against lefties. Salty, a switch-hitter, came into the season with a .199 career average vs. left-handers, but went 8-for-24 through the first five weeks of the season. Since, he’s fallen back into trouble. He is 6-for-33 (.182) with 14 strikeouts over the last 30 days. Teagarden is 3-for-10 against lefties this season, so he doesn’t really have much of a track record for the year. And he was 1-for-11 (.091) against them last year.

5:13: And speaking of Teagarden, should the Rangers consider pairing him up with RHP Vicente Padilla for the time being? Padilla has made both of his starts since the Great Waivers Incident with Teagarden behind the plate and he’s had two of his guttiest performances as a Ranger, allowing Boston and the Dodgers at total of two runs in 12 innings. Teagarden has caught Padilla seven times over the last two seasons. The Rangers are 5-2 in thos games and Padilla has a 4.14 ERA. The club is 22-11 with other catchers behind the plate for Padilla since the start of last year; Padilla has a 4.88 ERA with anyone other than Teagarden behind the plate since the start of 2008.

5:22: If you want to scoreboard to watch tonight, might make sense to follow the Astros-Diamondbacks game. Roy Oswalt is starting for Houston after having his start pushed back by a sore wrist. The wrist is certainly worth monitoring. As you may be aware from previous entries, Oswalt, well, a healthy Oswalt, would be my No. 1 trade target this summer.

5:33: Another day without Frank Francisco. Current best case scenario: He’s ready to return Tuesday from shoulder soreness.

7:06: Rangers, Braves and Twins entered the day as the only teams unbeaten in interleague play this season. Twins beat Cubs 2-0.

7:15: Rangers scoreless streak now at 20 innings.

7:27: Make it 21.

7:32: So, apparently, it was a one-day experiment with Chris Davis hitting in the eighth spot. He went 1-for-2 with a walk, but manager Ron Washington has moved him back up to seventh and dropped Jarrod Saltalamacchia. Guess Washington feels like even if Davis is struggling, he’s got more chance to drive in runs than Salty. Which brings us to this question: If that’s the case, should not Taylor Teagarden get more of a look?

7:39: By the way, the Rangers team record scoreless streak is 39 innings, set in 1981.

7:42: Have fixed earlier entry to reflect that Twins have won all five interleague games. But it brings about a question regarding Cubs. Who here didn’t think Wrigley Field and the NL was a bad combo for Milton Bradley. But, hey, at least he’s got $30 million.

7:45: Scoreless streak: 22.

7:47: Notice much discussion on Salty vs. Teagarden behind the plate. Feel obligated to point out that pitchers had a 4.46 ERA with Salty behind the plate this year entering the game; it was 4.58 with Teagarden. The difference is negligible, which speaks highly of how far Salty has improved as a catcher.

7:50: Just so you know, there are more storms headed towards North Texas. According to my keen eye, it appears they may move Northwest of the park. Right now, it’s a lovely, if steamy evening.

7:58: With infield in, Ian Kinsler dives to grab Casey Blake’s ball and still manages to hold Orlando Hudson at third. Two outs. Streaky shaky, but still in tact.

8:00: Kinsler leaps to grab James Loney’s liner. Streak survives. Now at 23.

8:05: Most significant thing to come from manager’s pre-game gathering is that the Rangers will attempt to use RHP Jason Jennings only to start an inning. On Friday, the Rangers planned to send Vicente Padilla back out for the sixth with 108 pitches, but after second thought, they called the bullpen a second time and told Jennings to be ready to start the inning.

The Rangers and Jennings, who is converting from starting this season, believe “clean” situations are better for him. Though Jennings has a 1.95 ERA for the nine times he’s entered once an inning has already started, he has allowed five of 10 inherited runners to score. Jennings has started an inning in three of his last four outings and allowed a pair of runs in seven innings.

“It’s just a different mind set,” Jennings said. “When you come in with a man on base, your immediate need is to punch a guy out or make him hit the ball weakly on the ground. That’s never been my mindset. My mindset has been to establish the fastball, which is what I did as a starter. Coming in during an inning is the one thing I’ve really struggled with in the bullpen. I’ve just had never had that thought to go out there and strike guys out immediately.”

8:08: Ominous weather sign. Managers just met with umpiring crew chief Charlie Reliford between innings.

8:09: Take that back, the discusision was about a non-working light standard behind home plate. Oncor is on the way. Sorry, won’t even joke about the folks who are still waiting for power.

8:12: And that’s 24.

8:17: We are now officially in a light delay, which has one-third less calories than the normal delay. As I mentioned before, Oncor is on the way.

8:40: Word is delay will run another 45 minutes or so. I’ve put out the call for matches. Or maybe somebody can run down to 7-11 and get a bunch of bic lighters.

8:41: Scott Feldman is on the field throwing with Mike Maddux to try and stay loose.

8:44: Feldman and Maddux are done throwing – for now. I suspect they’ll head back out to play catch in a few minutes to try and keep the normal feel of pitching in a game.

8:45: Feldman has 57 pitches through five.; Wolf 67. … Wolf is also doing the catch thing on the visitors side.

9:04: I hate light failure delays.

9:17: We are at one hour into the power delay and I figure Feldman is done. I also wonder now what is the proper music for a light failure delay? After all, they play “Here Comes The Rain Again,” during rain delays. I figure “Dancing In The Dark,” would be a nice selection.

9:21: Feldman playing catch again, so maybe he is going to try. At this point, I’d treat him like precious cargo.

9:21, Part II: See if this game were in Atlanta, “That’s The Night That The Lights Went Out In Georgia,” would be fine power-related delay music. What about, “Boom, Boom, Out Go The Lights?”

9:27: Angels bashing Padres again.

9:29: P.A. announcement just went out: “Does anybody have a screwdriver?”

9:33: Kidding.

9:37: Remember that scene in “Airplane,” where the lights go out on the runway and the rather peppy guy is seen saying “Kidding,” and holding the plug? Hah. I liked that scene. I don’t like this one.

9:44: We have flickering and halogen awakening. The game has been saved. Thanks, Oncor!

9:45: It’s been 90 minutes since we last played. Who pitches for the Rangers?

9:48: Resuming at 10 pm.

9:48, Part II: Eddie Guardado warming. It will apparently be his game.

9:59: Play Ball!

10:01: Streak dies at 24 innings. Juan Pierre singled off Guardado, stole second and went to third on a throwing error. He scored on a ground out. And Dodgers may not be done yet.

10:03: As a thank you to fans for their patience tonight, any fan holding tickets to tonight’s game can exchange them for tickets to the July 5th game against Tampa Bay. Nice gesture.

10:14: Andruw Jones homer against the team he either hates or doesn’t ends an 0-for-16 stretch for him.

10:27: Though Jason Grilli did not allow a run in his first two outings with the Rangers, he allowed a two-run homer to No. 9 hitter Matt Kemp on a 2-and-2, two-out pitch in the seventh. Grilli allowed runs in each of his final five games with Colorado, which is why he was made available for acquisition.

10:42: Darren O’Day on for 20th time as a Ranger in less than two months. Using O’Day with Rangers down 3-1 here is reinforcement the club has a short bullpen. Not only is Frank Francisco unavailable, but it appears manager Ron Washington won’t go to Guillermo Moscoso or Doug Mathis unless the game is out of question. O’Day is pitching for fourth time in seven days.

10:48: O’Day is brilliant – again. Perfect inning of work.

10:50: Angels had no problems with lights. Or Padres. Torii Hunter hit three homers.

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173 Comments to “Depot: Rangers-Dodgers Live Game Blog, News And Notes”
  • AJM @ June 13th, 2009 at 5:21 pm

    Is Brandon Boggs ever going to play?

  • Evan Grant @ June 13th, 2009 at 5:27 pm

    @AJM: You would think this was a perfect opportunity. But the Rangers don’t want to take David Murphy’s bat out of the lineup right now. He is hitting .318 over the last 30 days.

  • Rodney @ June 13th, 2009 at 5:28 pm

    “The Thinking Man’s Benchwarmer”…muah ha ha ha! Methinks he he is doomed because of his most ardent supporter.

  • The Beer Guy @ June 13th, 2009 at 5:29 pm

    I’d have sent Kendrick down, too, as badly as he’s performing. Oh well, can’t complain too much about that can we! :)

    If they can do that for Kendrick (a 4-year player), at what realistic point will we consider sending Davis down for some minor league rehabbing? I realize his defense is valued, and he showed (briefly?) some signs of breaking out, but if he continues to be right at .200, do you leave him here all season? What does that do to his long-term profile?

  • declan macanus @ June 13th, 2009 at 5:30 pm

    .089 against lefties, huh? Well let’s put a light-hitting leftie right in the middle of the lineup and leave a rightie (who happens to play plus D).
    That should work.

  • The Beer Guy @ June 13th, 2009 at 5:31 pm

    @Evan, re: Padilla and Teagarden. What do you think explains that? Better communication and pitch calling? Or statistical quirk? Also, could some of Padilla’s ‘blow up’ problems have to do with a less-than-good working relationship with his catcher (Salty or otherwise)?

  • adiosmofo @ June 13th, 2009 at 5:32 pm

    Nelson should walk 4 times tonight

  • Fred @ June 13th, 2009 at 5:37 pm

    1) Davis said hitting against lefties helps him lock in and battle his way out of slumps.
    2) Sure looked like Teagarden helped calm Padilla in the 1st last nite.

  • Evan Grant @ June 13th, 2009 at 5:40 pm

    @The Beer Guy, Fred: As you guys may be aware, I wasn’t on the premises last night, but everybody I’ve talked to indicated Teagarden played a significant role in keeping Padilla calm and focused early in the game. Manager Ron Washington acknowledged as much, but that’s not to say Saltalamacchia wouldn’t have done the same.

  • declan macmanus @ June 13th, 2009 at 5:47 pm

    Why would a pro ball player be more “locked-in” because a given pitcher throws with one hand or the other?

    Absurd

  • Evan Grant @ June 13th, 2009 at 5:56 pm

    @declan: It’s all about confidence. If a guy feels more “locked in” against lefties, that’s a huge first step towards success. No explaining why a guy feels locked in, but whatever it takes, it takes.

  • DC @ June 13th, 2009 at 6:04 pm

    Sure would like to see Teagarden catch Holland tomorrow

  • declan macmanus @ June 13th, 2009 at 6:11 pm

    Hindman has got me thinking about a defensive line-up that regularly features Teagarden and Julio Borbon in center.

  • Fred @ June 13th, 2009 at 6:26 pm

    @decian-RHP is usually” easier” for LH batter. With LHP he has to focus more–it’s tougher. Maybe seems counter intuitive, but it makes sense to me. It’s why I became a switch hitter.

  • Auditor @ June 13th, 2009 at 6:29 pm

    With FF still not on the DL, maybe texas is trying to stay off the list of most players on the DL….

    http://www.beyondtheboxscore.com/2009/6/4/896616/dissecting-the-disabled-list-by

  • Auditor @ June 13th, 2009 at 6:42 pm

    @Evan, about Roy being trade:

    I was working yesterday on my Midweek Insider on Roy Oswalt, I e-mailed Astros owner Drayton McLane. Today, he wrote me back, with a pretty definitive take on Oswalt:

    “In regards to your question about Roy Oswalt, there has absolutely been zero discussion about him being traded. Roy is one of the cornerstones of our team and the personal relationship that we share is important to me as well. That is why he has a long-term contract with a no trade agreement. I am not sure where this rumor began, but it was untrue. Thank you for giving me an opportunity to make this clear.”

    Source: http://weblogs.newsday.com/sports/baseball/blog/2009/06/an_update_on_roy_oswalt_and_a.html

  • Evan Grant @ June 13th, 2009 at 7:00 pm

    @Auditor: Seen this report before. It is middle of June. Situation in Houston only going to get worse. Personal relationships aside, the best thing McLane could do for the people of Houston is get to work on rebuilding a club that is in complete tatters.

  • scooper @ June 13th, 2009 at 7:05 pm

    @evan: I must make a confession. as much as I like Salty, I would really like to see TT as our catcher. I think he’ll hit enough, and his defense and temperment & intelligence behind the plate could really help our pitchers. As far as calming Padilla down, it did appear that he had a big hand in it; however, it could have helped that Padilla knows he’s on thin ice. And I second the motion of wanting to see TT catch Holland.

  • declan macmanus @ June 13th, 2009 at 7:06 pm

    @evan: any chance will ever see Ian move out of the leadoff spot? He seems like a natural for the 5 spot.

  • scooper @ June 13th, 2009 at 7:06 pm

    @evan: and I agree with you on Oswalt. I would love to see him in a Rangers’ uniform.

  • scooper @ June 13th, 2009 at 7:09 pm

    This will be the Dodgers’ first up-close look at Elvis. I hope they gen an eyeful!
    BTW, I doubt Furcal will be running well in this at-bat.

  • The Beer Guy @ June 13th, 2009 at 7:11 pm

    @scooper: I think we still need to see more from each of them before committing to one definitively. Sample size too small :)

    LET’S GO RANGERS!

  • The Beer Guy @ June 13th, 2009 at 7:14 pm

    Good call scoop, I could have run that one better than Furcal. Ouch!

  • Auditor @ June 13th, 2009 at 7:14 pm

    @Evan, True Houston is not very good this year but they have won 6 of the last 10 (one loss by Oswalt). Also, the fact that Drayton once gave Roy a bulldozer after winning a playoff game… he would be foolish to trade Roy away.

    Irony is that if Hicks had money, many teams are willing to shed payroll and pitchers for little in return.

  • scooper @ June 13th, 2009 at 7:14 pm

    @beerguy: It is just a personal preference. I’m not saying that there is statistical certainty to back me up or that I think Salty is bad or anything like that. It’s more like Wash: it’s what my “gut” says.

  • The Beer Guy @ June 13th, 2009 at 7:17 pm

    @scooper: I hear ya. I like both of ‘em, so I’m happy either way it ends up going. On Salty, I’m really impressed at the difference he’s shown this year from last. I admit that I was somewhat skeptical that he was “all that” after last year.

  • scooper @ June 13th, 2009 at 7:21 pm

    @beerguy: I am with you on that! there is a huge difference in Salty this year. And I really like him, too. but we do need to commit to one of them – neither is a backup catcher. and I just have a hunch that when TT gets in the lineup for good, he is going to be amazing working with a pitching staff.

  • The Beer Guy @ June 13th, 2009 at 7:22 pm

    I want to give an official ‘Go Hogs Go’ to my Arkansas Razorback baseball team! Beat Cal St. Fullerton today in the CWS!

  • scooper @ June 13th, 2009 at 7:25 pm

    Good for the Hogs! This is one time I will root for them (except when they play UT).

  • Fred @ June 13th, 2009 at 7:25 pm

    I’m impressed with Salty’s catch/throw improvement. A bit disappointed with his lack of development at the plate–especially when he was touted for his patience. Puzzling, his long term problem from the right side–considering he’s right handed. Did he originally throw right/bat left? Or has he just seen too few lefties over the years? (Happened to one of my sons who was a switch hitter, lack of lefties in HS atrophied his RH hitting).

  • scooper @ June 13th, 2009 at 7:26 pm

    Feldman looks good so far!

  • The Beer Guy @ June 13th, 2009 at 7:27 pm

    Would be great to see a UT-Arkansas final! There’s a good rivalry in many sports over many years :) Miss those SWC days sometimes (usually when getting our butts beaten by Florida, Alabama, LSU, etc. in football hehe)

  • scooper @ June 13th, 2009 at 7:27 pm

    @evan: what is the Rangers’ record scoreless streak?

  • The Beer Guy @ June 13th, 2009 at 7:34 pm

    Ouch, nasty pitch to Murphy. I see why his avg. vs. LHB is so low…

  • scooper @ June 13th, 2009 at 7:34 pm

    Darn!

  • Fred @ June 13th, 2009 at 7:38 pm

    Not a bad AB for Davis. Patience and went with the pitch. Almost blooped one in
    Sadly, Murphy, who usually looks pretty good against LHP, got eaten uo!

  • scooper @ June 13th, 2009 at 7:40 pm

    @evan: thanks! And, as I’ve said previously tonight, I agree that TT should get more of a look.

  • scooper @ June 13th, 2009 at 7:41 pm

    Look at him limp like he got hit on the foot! lol

  • scooper @ June 13th, 2009 at 7:44 pm

    @evan: I had to laugh when I saw those cubs highlights from yesterday. That was the “bad” Milton coming out.

  • The Beer Guy @ June 13th, 2009 at 7:44 pm

    39 innings?? Wowzah, that’s a long streak.

    @Scooper: Heh, yeah he looked pretty sheepish there, eh? (His batting helmet is also a couple sizes too big!)

  • scooper @ June 13th, 2009 at 7:45 pm

    and having that $30 million in security hasn’t enabled him to play in too many more games, has it?

  • scooper @ June 13th, 2009 at 7:46 pm

    @beerguy: I must admit: in my ball-playing days, I looked sheepish and put on an act a few times, too.

  • scooper @ June 13th, 2009 at 7:49 pm

    @evan: I’m not basing my wish for TT on statistics – it is a “gut” thing.

  • scooper @ June 13th, 2009 at 7:52 pm

    “unbeaten” Yanez? it is stretching it when you start advertising him as “unbeaten” when he is 1-0.

  • AJM @ June 13th, 2009 at 7:53 pm

    Murphy might look good against lefties, but he can’t hit them to save his life.

  • Evan Grant @ June 13th, 2009 at 7:54 pm

    @The Beer Guy: Rangers had four consecutive shutouts in 1981.

  • The Beer Guy @ June 13th, 2009 at 7:59 pm

    Great job there by Kinsler!

  • DC @ June 13th, 2009 at 7:59 pm

    Anyone else notice how many errors the rangers have the last couple weeks.

  • scooper @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:00 pm

    Scooter: 47 pitches thru 4 innings.

  • scooper @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:01 pm

    If I’m wrong on the pitch count, it is MLB Gameday’s fault! It says 47, not 37.

  • Ted Price @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:01 pm

    You know, a lot get mentioned regarding Kinsler’s pop-outs and Davis’ strike outs, but I think they more than make up for it in runs saved. Not saying they cancel each other out, but at least there is meaningful contribution.

  • scooper @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:02 pm

    @Ted: I agree. I’m more than happy to be paitent with both of them. They are both good hitters (especially Kins) and they will both be OK.

  • The Beer Guy @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:03 pm

    Jones continues the slow decline from his nice start.

  • Fred @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:07 pm

    @AJM-
    How did I know that was you, counsellor, must have been the tone.
    Murphy vs. LHP is life time .262/.295/.679. Maybe not all star, but better than most platoon players.

  • Ryans Dad @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:09 pm

    Evening all. Interesting game brewing here.

  • The Beer Guy @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:09 pm

    Lights out…is this a money saving tactic by Hicks? :P

  • scooper @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:10 pm

    @beerguy: lol

  • scooper @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:11 pm

    @evan: what are the odds that Jennings goes back to starting next year (assuming good health)?

  • The Beer Guy @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:13 pm

    You know, a lot is said about our hitters needing to take more balls, be more patient, etc., but we are actually 6th overall in walks drawn. Alas, we’re also 8th overall in K’s…

  • Ryans Dad @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:15 pm

    What ever happened to protect the plate? It seems as if the Rangers are still swinging away with 2 strikes.

  • scooper @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:16 pm

    a run or 2 here would be really nice.

  • The Beer Guy @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:16 pm

    Scratch that, I was looking at it wrong. We’re actually 28th in walks drawn :(

  • The Beer Guy @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:17 pm

    (And 5th in K’s) Ok, forget it, we need more patience!

  • Ryans Dad @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:18 pm

    I wasn’t going to chanllenge you beer guy, but that sounds more like it.

  • Fred @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:19 pm

    Ted- Couldn’t agree more, on Davis–even after yet, another, K. I don’t think I’ve ever seen as good FB played for the Rangers–not Tex, not Palmero, not O’Brien.
    For Kins, he’s frustrating. Great range, makes amazing plays, then zones out on a pop up or grounder right at him. Like a rook. Should be beyond that, now. He’s too good.

  • The Beer Guy @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:20 pm

    I was looking at last year’s totals. Why I wasn’t tipped off by the large numbers I’m not sure.

  • Ryans Dad @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:20 pm

    Are you kidding me? A light delay.

  • Ryans Dad @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:21 pm

    Could happen to any of us. Not much time between subjects to crunch numbers.

  • The Beer Guy @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:21 pm

    This is a great marketing tactic! Lights out for a while not only saves a bit of money, but also drives people to the concession stands!

  • Auditor @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:22 pm

    Okay, which roady cut the power for the concert????

  • Ryans Dad @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:25 pm

    So, who’s gonna be the first to start the “is it time to get rid of Rudy” talk? Is it me???

  • Ted Price @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:25 pm

    @Evan – thanks for the restraint. I’m on my third day without power. Listening to Rangers on the radio and using the Web and email on my phone to communicate with outside world!

  • Auditor @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:25 pm

    My bad, seems Merrian Webster has it as “roadie” not roady.

  • Last of the Romohicans @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:26 pm

    How long of a delay before we worry that Feldman can’t come back.

  • scooper @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:28 pm

    @ryansdad: help yourself, but I won’t be joining the choir!

  • Ryans Dad @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:29 pm
  • The Beer Guy @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:32 pm

    @Ryans Dad: Hah! Nice one

    That was a pretty good one by Lyons: “Power company will be here Tuesday between 8-5, if someone can be here…”

  • Ryans Dad @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:33 pm

    It’s a beaut Clark!

  • The Beer Guy @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:37 pm

    Alright, this officially sucks. Although, if Feldman is affected or gone, hopefully so will Wolf.

  • TCUWags @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:39 pm

    Does Kinsler have 5 chances in a row or I did I miss something. Can’t TIVO back … changed the channel just as LSU hit a run HR.

  • Evan Grant @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:42 pm

    @TCUWags: Kinsler does indeed have five consecutive chances.

  • TCUWags @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:45 pm

    Wonder what the record is?

  • scooper @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:46 pm

    @evan: how is oswalt doing?

  • bobinatl @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:48 pm

    Since Murphy is on a roll and seems to start rallies or keeps them going, can he be moved up in the order while some at the top struggle?

  • Doug Fu @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:49 pm

    All I can say is thank God for the Beers of Texas kiosk near section 32!

  • scooper @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:51 pm

    @dougfu: which is your favorite?

  • Doug Fu @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:59 pm

    @ scooper: I’m a Lone Star/Lone Star Light man, but I want to try some of the other drafts they have there.

    If it takes a bit for me to respond, please forgive. The cell service is running SLOW here at the park.

  • DC @ June 13th, 2009 at 8:59 pm

    Oswalt 6 in 1 er

  • scooper @ June 13th, 2009 at 9:04 pm

    @dougfu: I’ve always been fond of Shiner.

  • Ryans Dad @ June 13th, 2009 at 9:04 pm

    I wonder whatever happened to Sally from Third Rock. She’s kind of weird hot.

  • scooper @ June 13th, 2009 at 9:04 pm

    @DC: thanks!

  • Evan Grant @ June 13th, 2009 at 9:05 pm

    @TCUWags: Well, I would imagine that a first baseman has the record for most consecutive chances because surely somebody has rolled off like 10-12 consecutive ground ball outs.

  • DC @ June 13th, 2009 at 9:06 pm

    yw mlb gameday is great

  • TCUWags @ June 13th, 2009 at 9:08 pm

    Guess I’m tired…I think my lights are out too.
    So I wonder what an ADD guy like Josh is doing right now?

  • Fred @ June 13th, 2009 at 9:13 pm

    @Ryan’s Dad-
    THAT is one thought that never crossed my mind.
    Of course, I never saw the show.
    Too old.
    Just an old man–ex coach.

  • Fred @ June 13th, 2009 at 9:16 pm

    Jesus, Hicks
    Now you can’t pay the friggin light bill?

  • cameron @ June 13th, 2009 at 9:17 pm

    Evan, since we’re still in a power delay seems like a good time to bring this up: I think I signed up for the newsletter last month or so when you asked for signups. Either I screwed up my registration or the newsletter has been put on the backburner. Did I totally foul up?

  • Ryans Dad @ June 13th, 2009 at 9:18 pm

    well Fred heres your chance to watch

  • Last of the Romohicans @ June 13th, 2009 at 9:21 pm

    I’m with Cameron – I haven’t gotten one either

  • The Beer Guy @ June 13th, 2009 at 9:22 pm

    Looks like we’re lined up to get the Big Unit on Friday @ San Fran.

  • Evan Grant @ June 13th, 2009 at 9:24 pm

    @Cameron, Last and others: Yes, newsletter has been put on backburner whilst we get the site up and running as best we can.

  • The Beer Guy @ June 13th, 2009 at 9:27 pm

    @Evan: Is Wolf anywhere to be seen?

    As for music, how about: Dark End of the Street

  • Ryans Dad @ June 13th, 2009 at 9:28 pm

    Well folks, I’ve got a new grill that needs some assembling and I’ve put it off as long as I can. I will be back when I’m done. Holler at ya

  • scooper @ June 13th, 2009 at 9:29 pm

    @evan: have the Angels played the Dodgers yet? If so, how did they do?

  • Clinton V. @ June 13th, 2009 at 9:31 pm

    @scooper

    Going off memory but I believe the Angels took 2 out of 3 off the Dodgers.

  • Last of the Romohicans @ June 13th, 2009 at 9:32 pm

    @Evan – I think Metallica’s “Hit the Lights” would work. Also, I’d expect a Don Meredith reference at some point.

  • JustSaying @ June 13th, 2009 at 9:32 pm

    Hey are we going to play tonite?

  • The Beer Guy @ June 13th, 2009 at 9:34 pm

    Lol! This from the Newberg Report (Lights Out Edition):

    “Yahumara Hernandez Manzo, the daughter of Orlando “El Duque” Hernandez, is four months older than Rangers first-round pick Matt Purke.”

  • cameron @ June 13th, 2009 at 9:37 pm

    @Evan, Thanks for the update. Love the site, and most all questions get answered any way.

  • Doug Fu @ June 13th, 2009 at 9:39 pm

    Sad news. I was informed Beers of Texas shuts down at 10.

    This makes Doug Fu sad.

  • Fred @ June 13th, 2009 at 9:41 pm

    @Evan-saw that you were the designated info guy.
    Is this one a wrap?

  • JustSaying @ June 13th, 2009 at 9:43 pm

    still think beers of mexico would be better…..

  • Evan Grant @ June 13th, 2009 at 9:44 pm

    @Fred: We are about to start playing again. The lights have been lit.

  • DC @ June 13th, 2009 at 9:45 pm

    Evan have you heard when Smoak is gonna be back ?

  • Evan Grant @ June 13th, 2009 at 9:45 pm

    @scooper, Clinton: Angels and Dodgers have three more games next week. Angels took two of three from Dodgers in first meeting of Freeway Series.

  • JustSaying @ June 13th, 2009 at 9:46 pm

    this reminds me of the billy martin days……game would get delayed….all the players on edge in the dugout/clubhouse and then here’s billy spicing things up…….

  • scooper @ June 13th, 2009 at 9:48 pm

    Oswalt: 7 innings, 1 ER, 119 pitches, avg fb vel 92.4. It was 6-1 when he left; the bullpen is having problems getting out of the 8th

  • Evan Grant @ June 13th, 2009 at 9:48 pm

    @DC: No on Smoak. Not supposed to be terribly serious. He’s been out just over two weeks. I’d expect him back in a week to 10 days, but have not heard anything one way or another.

  • cameron @ June 13th, 2009 at 9:51 pm

    Evan, give us your proposed trade for Oswalt. I don’t follow Houston enough to know what they need.

  • Fred @ June 13th, 2009 at 9:53 pm

    @How about the pitchers? Are either coming back?
    A shame.

  • Fred @ June 13th, 2009 at 9:54 pm

    Hicks can’t do nuthin right

  • scooper @ June 13th, 2009 at 9:54 pm

    it is now 6-4 in houston, houston relievers still haven’t gotten out of the 8th.

  • scooper @ June 13th, 2009 at 9:56 pm

    @dougfu: you better hurry and get another beer!

  • DC @ June 13th, 2009 at 10:01 pm

    not a good restart

  • Clinton V. @ June 13th, 2009 at 10:01 pm

    Thanks a lot, lighting crew. This loss is for you.

  • scooper @ June 13th, 2009 at 10:01 pm

    so much for the scoreless streak

  • cameron @ June 13th, 2009 at 10:01 pm

    Eddie is not Feldman tonight.

  • scooper @ June 13th, 2009 at 10:02 pm

    it’s way too early to call it a loss! we’re going against their bullpen, too.

  • The Beer Guy @ June 13th, 2009 at 10:03 pm

    Note to middle infield: Can we please make sure we catch the ball before applying the tag?

  • Dr Pepper presents Batface McGee @ June 13th, 2009 at 10:04 pm

    I appreciate what Eddie does in the clubhouse, but the dude just doesnt have it on the mound. If he wants to stick around as an asst pitching coach or something, fine. But right now he is more of a detriment to the team than he is an asset.

  • DC @ June 13th, 2009 at 10:05 pm

    Elvis covers so much ground

  • Fred @ June 13th, 2009 at 10:05 pm

    You know what I said about Salty’s improved catch and throw?
    Sorry for the jinx.
    As to Fedlman–what a shame!!

  • Clinton V. @ June 13th, 2009 at 10:05 pm

    @scooper
    I’ll take cynicism and be pleasantly surprised instead of optimism and be let down every time.

  • Evan Grant @ June 13th, 2009 at 10:06 pm

    @Cameron: Trade proposals forthcoming, probably on Monday morning.

  • The Beer Guy @ June 13th, 2009 at 10:07 pm

    Why would you be let down every time if you’re optimistic? Don’t you imagine you would only be let down some of the time?

  • scooper @ June 13th, 2009 at 10:10 pm

    @clinton: your choice!

  • jcouch @ June 13th, 2009 at 10:15 pm

    if Ian and Young weren’t swinging for the fences maybe we would be up 2-1… i’m so tired of this offense not getting on base… watching Ian bat right now makes me vomit

  • JustSaying @ June 13th, 2009 at 10:16 pm

    a pride hr…….better than taking an elevator up the the pressbox

  • Clinton V. @ June 13th, 2009 at 10:24 pm

    I can only wonder what kind of classic game has been ruined tonight.

  • The Beer Guy @ June 13th, 2009 at 10:28 pm

    I don’t live there, but could I suggest you all not paying your electricity bill this month in protest?

  • Fred @ June 13th, 2009 at 10:28 pm

    Young rarely errs by swinging for the fences–alto he sometimes reaches them. He knows how to hit.

  • Fred @ June 13th, 2009 at 10:29 pm

    Clinton–I echo you’re sentiment.
    A shame.

  • cameron @ June 13th, 2009 at 10:33 pm

    @Clinton – Agreed.

  • jcouch @ June 13th, 2009 at 10:39 pm

    u know what drives me crazier than the rangers offense… it’s homer fans

  • scooper @ June 13th, 2009 at 10:40 pm

    @jcouch: fan is short for fanatic. I do not apologize for being a homer.

  • jcouch @ June 13th, 2009 at 10:43 pm

    Hank swinging for the fences… u know i went to my first game in NY to watch the Rangers play the Yankees and although I hate to admit it I really respect NY fans bc they get the game and they aren’t afraid to let the manger and team know when they are screwing up… we are too damn nice…

  • Fred @ June 13th, 2009 at 10:44 pm

    @couch-There’s a big difference between homer fans and people who’ve played the game and know what they’re talking about.
    I can only respectfully suspect that you go 0-2 on those.

  • jcouch @ June 13th, 2009 at 10:45 pm

    I wish Knox would add something to the game… I’m tired of hearing from old women abt charity events and drunk fans

  • Clinton V. @ June 13th, 2009 at 10:46 pm

    I wouldn’t know what Knox does or doesn’t add to the broadcasts.

    And we go to Jim…at this point I’ve already changed the channel.

  • The Beer Guy @ June 13th, 2009 at 10:48 pm

    I don’t mean to speak for anyone, but I think jcouch was talking about the lack of boo-ing fans at the Ballpark (re: homer remark). Not that I agree, just saying.

  • jcouch @ June 13th, 2009 at 10:50 pm

    @ Fred – I’ve played the game and I know a team follows its leaders… and I see an undisciplined team swinging for the fences… the difference between me and you is that you are comfortable with you lovable rangers and you wouldn’t mind getting swept in the playoffs but i understand that swinging for the fences will not get it done in the playoffs… do you watch baseball or only the rangers? in the playoffs you face the best pitchers in the game at least 2 times if you make it to a game 5 or 6 and they usually don’t give up big innings… so while I am encouraged by the Feldman, Millwood and Harrison when healthy I know that if this offense doesn’t learn to get on base, move runners along and contribute timely hits they will be no more than stepping stone for the Yankees…

  • jcouch @ June 13th, 2009 at 10:51 pm

    @ The Beer Guy exactly

  • scooper @ June 13th, 2009 at 10:51 pm

    @beerguy: I wouldn’t have been booing, either, so I guess I’m still included.

  • Fred @ June 13th, 2009 at 10:52 pm

    Beer Guy-You’re a nice guy and a peace maker–but follow the thread.

  • jcouch @ June 13th, 2009 at 10:52 pm

    Also, allowing fans come into your ballpark and cheer louder than you… you think I was comfortable in Ny and I bet when I go to Boston it will be the same way…

  • The Beer Guy @ June 13th, 2009 at 10:53 pm

    Well, I think you have to look at the long run picture. The offense hasn’t been like this all season, and the playoffs (if we even make it) are quite a ways off. I don’t think you can assume that the offense will continue to struggle the rest of the year. Who knows what things will look like in Sept/Oct.

  • Evan Grant @ June 13th, 2009 at 10:53 pm

    @All: It’s been a long night and you’ve been a great crowd, but lets not get frustrated with one another here.

  • The Beer Guy @ June 13th, 2009 at 10:55 pm

    Still, I agree, it’s frustrating to watch…

  • Clinton V. @ June 13th, 2009 at 10:55 pm

    I contend all this Ranger angst be directed towards the electricians or whomever is responsible for such a ridiculous delay.

  • scooper @ June 13th, 2009 at 10:56 pm

    @jcouch: what, exactly, would we accomplish by booing or berating the manager or team? If you feel the need to comment on the things that you disagree with, more power to you. I don’t appreciate you putting me down because I make different choices than you. Just because I don’t voice my displeasure dosn’t mean that I don’t understand what is wrong with the team and how it is playing. I prefer to stay positive and root for my favorite team. You are more than welcome to do whatever you want to.

  • Clinton V. @ June 13th, 2009 at 10:58 pm

    RISP batting average falling faster than the light bank’s wattage.

  • jcouch @ June 13th, 2009 at 11:01 pm

    @ The Beer Guy I fully expect the offense to breakout but even if they do I don’t see them changing their philosophy… I might be jumping on board with Bad Radio in that you might think abt looking at Rudy in all of this…

  • jcouch @ June 13th, 2009 at 11:03 pm

    @scopper they might get their feeling hurt and if so then get them out of here but they might also get pissed and it can motivate them…

  • scooper @ June 13th, 2009 at 11:04 pm

    @jcouch: whatever.

  • Fred @ June 13th, 2009 at 11:09 pm

    @Couch–As a matter of fact, I agree that Kins is much too impatient and tries to jerk way too much to left. In fact, I always told my leadoff man to see at least one strike, so that he and his teammates could see the other guy’s stuff. He’s got the tools, but not the mind set to be a good lead off hitter.
    Criticizing Young for the same, however, I found naive.
    Blalock, in that situation, I though was not at all inappropriate.
    Just a somewhat educated opinion.
    Just to clarify.
    Peace.
    In the name of Evan, the son and the holy ghost.

  • The Beer Guy @ June 13th, 2009 at 11:11 pm

    Good job by Moscoso there to shut it down. Now let’s get some runs!

  • scooper @ June 13th, 2009 at 11:11 pm

    @fred: I agree on all counts. especially blalock. they put him in to drive in the runs. given that, it is pretty ridiculous to complain because he was swinging for the fences.

  • Clinton V. @ June 13th, 2009 at 11:13 pm

    And the game rests on Chris Davis.

    Good night everybody!

  • The Beer Guy @ June 13th, 2009 at 11:13 pm

    Broxton is not a small man, is he?

  • Clinton V. @ June 13th, 2009 at 11:14 pm

    Holy wow he strikes out I did not see that one coming.

  • Clinton V. @ June 13th, 2009 at 11:15 pm

    Let’s pay our electric bill Ballpark, surely there’s enough parking and concession revenue to cover at least that.

  • Tom @ June 13th, 2009 at 11:29 pm

    After tonight do you think the Rangers will continue to feature SaltEE five of six games each week?

  • jcouch @ June 13th, 2009 at 11:56 pm

    @Fred you are right abt Young… I was a bit more disappointed in Kins but lumped young in there… but I do think hank should be criticized for his approach and I think Elvis was just as likely to get on base… I want to see the rangers move runners along… you will be a more dangerous and efficient team… you do that and things will open up… i don’t have the numbers but I’m sure the rangers are at the top of the league in solo-shots… wel put a couple of guys on and those become 2 and three run hrs